I was recently subject to a First Capital Connect (FCC) penalty fare. I wanted to appeal, so chose the option of receiving the penalty by post. I then found out through London Travel Watch that FCC is now prosecuting me. I have not been sent a penalty fare notice or been given any information on how to appeal the notice, which seems to be out of line with Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) guidelines. I am really worried as I often work abroad and am due to travel to the US next year. I also work with young people and would be affected hugely if my CRB or ability to enter the US were compromised. KH, London

Under SRA guidelines, if a person is to be charged a penalty fare, the authorised collector must tell them: that they are to be charged a penalty fare; why they are being charged a penalty fare; the amount of the penalty fare; and that they have the right to appeal against the penalty fare within 21 days. It's clear that your experience was very different from what should have happened. FCC investigated and concluded that "mistakes were made on both sides" at the time you were penalised. In recognition of this, it has decided not to press ahead with the prosecution, "in the spirit" of the fact that this could ruin your forthcoming work in the US. It can be very difficult to get train companies to back down, so this is a good result. You will still have to pay the initial £20 fine. Train travellers should, of course, always travel with a valid ticket to avoid penalty fares or prosecution.

You can email Mark King at your.problems@observer.co.uk or write to Mark King, Your Problems, The Observer, Kings Place, 90 York Way, London N1 9GU. Include a phone number.